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Statement of Need:

Since 2015, many aspects of emissions data collection and use have evolved. The EPA has continued to review hazardous air pollutant (HAP) emissions levels and associated public health risk through the Residual Risk and Technology (RTR) program, which in many cases has required Information Collection Requests (ICRs) under Section 114 of the Act. Such collection efforts have proven very time consuming and limited EPA’s ability to act quickly. Furthermore, as the EPA gains insight into the risks posed by certain chemicals, such as Ethylene Oxide, we have found ourselves limited by the data available on emissions sources. New compounds continue to be identified as public health threats, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which may be listed as HAPs in the future. Currently, States are required to report the emissions from sources in their state to EPA. In practice, that has meant emissions are reported only for facilities permitted at the state level. Facilities permitted at the federal level technically do not fall under the reporting requirements, and consequently, some never report emissions to the EPA, which does not allow for proper EPA and state program implementation. Requiring HAPs for point sources is essential to addressing continued public health risks and environmental justice issues.

Summary of the Legal Basis:

Section 114(a)(1) of the CAA authorizes the Administrator to, among other things, require certain persons (explained below) on a one-time, periodic, or continuous basis to keep records, make reports, undertake monitoring, sample emissions, or provide such other information as the Administrator may reasonably require. The EPA may require this information of any person who (i) owns or operates an emission source, (ii) manufactures control or process equipment, (iii) the Administrator believes may have information necessary for the purposes set forth in CAA section 114, or (iv) is subject to any requirement of the Act (except for manufacturers subject to certain Title II requirements). The information may be required for the purposes of developing an implementation plan, an emission standard under sections 111, 112, or 129, determining if any person is in violation of any standard or requirement of an implementation plan or emissions standard, or ‘‘carrying out any provision’’ of the Act (except for a provision of Title II with respect to manufacturers of new motor vehicles or new motor vehicle engines).

Alternatives:

These proposed reporting requirements also propose options and alternatives that may allow the States to report for owners/operators of regulated facilities.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits:

To be determined. 

Risks:

No risks are associated with this action as these are proposed reporting requirements.